For high-net-worth business travelers, flying comes with specific requirements. From separate living areas to spacious meeting rooms and wifi-connected working stations, business jets call for the highest levels of luxury and efficiency. And few jet manufacturers know that as well as Gulfstream.
Unlike several business jet producers that repurpose commercial airliners into private jets – such as Boeing Business Jets and Airbus Corporate Jets –, Gulfstream only offers purpose-built business aircraft. The company’s first aircraft, the Gulfstream I, entered service in 1959. Since then, the private plane maker has been at the forefront of corporate aviation, with nine of its jets being featured in Elite Traveler’s database of the Top Jets in the World for 2024.
With over 3,000 Gulfstream-branded aircraft in service worldwide, owners include no less than the likes of Jeff Bezos, Nancy Walton Laurie, and the US Air Force.
What are the characteristics of Gulfstream private jets?
Gulfstream jets are known to spearhead business aviation, continuously innovating its aircraft. Since 2008, the jet maker has added eight new models to its fleet and has confirmed its position as one of the most popular and in-demand private jet producers.
Gulfstream private jets are known for their remarkably short landing distance. Usually, long-range and ultra-long-range jets can only travel between the main airports worldwide, which are equipped with long runways. However, Gulfstream jets can stop on runways as short as 5,000 ft, even when advancing at a speed of 130mph, meaning they can connect airports that are not only across the world from each other, but that are also smaller, more remote and more conveniently located for business meetings or events.
Considering some models can fly over 16 passengers between London and Tokyo or New York and Davos, Gulfstream jets are a valuable time-saver for busy corporate clients. Gulfstream knows that productivity is an essential factor for corporate clients. This is why several of its aircraft have a lower cabin altitude than most jets, reducing travel fatigue and jet lag, and ensuring passengers feel physically and mentally ready to work as soon as they land.
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Still, Gulfstream flyers don’t need to wait until landing to be productive: interiors are carefully designed to accommodate business meetings, individual working time, and high-speed Jet ConneX Ka-band Wi-Fi connection. Luxury and comfort are central to the Gulfstream interiors, which can be arranged depending on preferences and needs, with world-class architects such as Naomi Astley Clarke transforming them into true extensions of the home, just in the sky.
While the massive size of Gulfstream private jets allows them to offer state-of-the-art amenities and opulence, it should be noted that it can also restrict access to some airports due to space requirements.
How much do Gulfstream jets cost?
Such an extent of comfort and luxury comes at a price. While costs can vary depending on the aircraft model or the selected layout and design, Gulfstream private jets are known to come with a particularly hefty price tag. As is often the case, jet prices are not readily available to the general public, but according to Aircraft Bluebook’s Winter 2023 numbers, costs range between $23m for the smallest models such as the G280, and up to $72.5m for the newest G800. As per Forbes, the iconic Gulfstream G650 model is listed at $70m.
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What are the best Gulfstream jets?
Gulfstream G650ER
The Gulfstream G650ER made headlines in 2019 when it broke the record for the fastest circumnavigation of the earth via the North and South Poles. That is no surprise when considering it an upgrade from the already extremely popular G600. The G650ER goes not only further than most business jets on the market, but also faster, reaching a speed of Mach 0.90.
The technical perks take nothing away from looks and comfort. Passengers can configure the G650ER according to their needs; the aircraft can sleep up to 10 flyers or seat up to 19, in four separate living areas.
Gulfstream G700
Gulfstream jets all offer opulent offices in the sky, but the G700 is more like a luxury suite taken – literally – to new heights. Its cabin is 57ft long, 6ft tall and 8ft wide, making it the biggest in the industry. The huge amount of space available can be configured with up to five living areas and includes a master suite with shower. The seats, which won no less than the 2020 International Yacht & Aviation Award for seat design, are handcrafted and can be converted to ergonomic beds. The G700 was approved for use in both the US and Europe in H1 of 2024, with jets already delivered to launch customer Qatar Executive.
Gulfstream G800
Gulfstream’s G800 will have the longest range of any other business jet in the world when it enters service in H2 of 2024 (subject to final certification), easily connecting Miami to Dubai or London to Buenos Aires without stopping to refuel, making it an ideal choice for corporate clients traveling through the world on tight schedules. The G800 can fly up to 8,000nm at an impressive speed of Mach 0.85, and has a seriously fast top speed of Mach 0.925.
While the business jet takes you and your partners across the globe, everyone on board can benefit from state-of-the-art technology with fresh air renewed every two to three minutes and one of the quietest cabins in business aviation for optimized relaxation.
